Thumbprint Cookies with Raspberry Preserves Recipe

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There is something irresistibly charming about a classic Thumbprint Cookies with Raspberry Preserves Recipe that immediately takes you back to cozy afternoons and joyful celebrations. These buttery, tender cookies with a burst of bright, sweet raspberry jam nestled right in the center strike the perfect balance between crisp edges and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior. Once you master this recipe, you’ll see why these delightful treats have stood the test of time and quickly become a favorite for gatherings, gifting, or simply a comforting homemade snack.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Thumbprint Cookies with Raspberry Preserves Recipe calls for a handful of simple but essential ingredients that come together to create a flawless texture and rich flavor. From perfectly softened butter to a hint of vanilla, each component plays a crucial role in delivering a cookie that’s buttery, tender, and bursting with jammy goodness.

• Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Provides a rich, creamy base essential for tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookies.
• Granulated sugar (⅓ cup): Adds sweetness and contributes to the cookie’s beautiful golden edges.
• Light brown sugar (⅓ cup, packed): Brings a subtle caramel depth that complements the raspberry preserves.
• Large egg yolk (1): Binds the dough and enriches the texture with moisture and softness.
• Vanilla extract (¾ teaspoon): Adds warm, aromatic notes that elevate the overall flavor.
• All-purpose flour (2 ¼ cups): The structure that holds everything together, giving cookies their shape.
• Cornstarch (2 teaspoons): Helps create a delicate crumb and tender texture in each bite.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
• Granulated sugar (½ cup, optional for rolling): Adds a sparkling sweet crust for an extra special finish.
• Raspberry jam or preserves (⅓ cup): The star filling that delivers vibrant color and burst of fruity flavor.

How to Make Thumbprint Cookies with Raspberry Preserves Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter

Begin by placing your softened butter in the bowl of a mixer or a large bowl if mixing by hand. Beat on medium speed until it becomes silky smooth and creamy. This step is crucial because a well-creamed butter base ensures your cookies will bake up with the perfect tender texture.

Step 2: Add Sugars

Next, scrape down your bowl’s sides and add both granulated and light brown sugars. Gradually increase your mixer’s speed to medium-high and continue beating for about 30 to 60 seconds. You’re looking for a fluffy, well-incorporated mixture that will give your cookies a lovely crumb and a touch of caramelized sweetness.

Step 3: Incorporate Egg Yolk and Vanilla

To enrich that buttery base even further, add the egg yolk and vanilla extract. Beat thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and completely combined. These ingredients bring moisture and depth of flavor to your cookie dough.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together your flour, cornstarch, and salt until everything is evenly combined. These dry ingredients are what provide structure while keeping the cookies tender and soft.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients to your wet butter mixture on low speed. Stop occasionally to scrape down the sides and make sure all the flour is incorporated evenly. The dough will seem crumbly at first, but if your mixer struggles, finish kneading gently by hand until it forms a cohesive ball.

Step 6: Form Dough Balls

Using a tablespoon measure, scoop portions of dough and roll them into smooth, crack-free balls. This helps prevent cracks during baking and creates that perfect base for your thumbprint.

Step 7: Roll in Sugar and Make Indents

Optional but highly recommended—gently roll each dough ball in granulated sugar to add a sparkly, sweet crust. Place them on a wax paper-lined plate or small baking tray. Then, carefully press a shallow hollow in the center of each ball using your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to create the signature thumbprint shape ready to hold your raspberry jam.

Step 8: Chill Dough

Transfer your prepared dough balls to the freezer or refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. This step is key for firming them up so they retain their shape in the hot oven instead of spreading out too much.

Step 9: Preheat Oven and Prepare Jam

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, warm your raspberry preserves gently in the microwave for a few seconds until soft and stirrable, making it easier to spoon into each cookie indentation.

Step 10: Fill Thumbprints

Spoon the warmed raspberry jam generously into each indentation, filling right to the brim. This juicy center makes each bite a delightful surprise of tart sweetness.

Step 11: Bake Cookies

Arrange the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet at least two inches apart. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 11 minutes or until the edges just turn golden. The contrast between the lightly crisp edge and soft center is what makes these cookies legendary.

Step 12: Cool and Serve

Once out of the oven, allow your Thumbprint Cookies with Raspberry Preserves Recipe to cool completely on the cookie sheet. This cooldown period helps develop the right texture and stops jam from running off, ensuring that perfect presentation and taste.

How to Serve Thumbprint Cookies with Raspberry Preserves Recipe

Garnishes

To add a little extra charm, consider dusting the cooled cookies lightly with powdered sugar for a delicate sparkle, or sprinkle some finely chopped pistachios around the jam center for added color and crunch. Fresh raspberry halves or mint leaves can also bring a refreshing pop for presentation.

Side Dishes

Thumbprint Cookies with Raspberry Preserves Recipe are wonderful on their own but pair exceptionally well with a hot cup of tea or coffee. If you’re hosting a brunch or festive gathering, serve them alongside a fruit salad or a creamy mascarpone dip for a balance of flavors and textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the plate by arranging your cookies in a pretty tin lined with parchment or in a glass jar tied with a ribbon. For gift-giving occasions, layering them between parchment paper in a decorative box makes a heartfelt, homemade present. You can even experiment by swapping raspberry preserves for lemon curd or apricot jam for delightful variations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover thumbprint cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay deliciously soft and flavorful for up to five days, making it easy to enjoy this classic treat whenever a craving hits.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies either before or after baking. To freeze dough, shape and indent as directed, then freeze on a tray for 30 minutes before transferring to a freezer bag for up to three months. Baked cookies freeze beautifully too—place them in an airtight container with parchment layers and thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

If you want to revive a little warmth and softness in your cookies, pop them into a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This gentle reheating refreshes the texture without drying out the jam or cookie base.

FAQs

Can I use other types of jam instead of raspberry preserves?

Absolutely! While raspberry preserves bring a lovely tartness and vibrant color, you can substitute with strawberry, apricot, blueberry, or any favorite jam to suit your taste.

Why do the cookies crack when I shape them?

Cracking can happen if the dough is too dry or warm. Make sure to chill the dough before baking and roll your dough into smooth balls to help prevent cracks during baking.

Is cornstarch necessary in the recipe?

Yes, cornstarch adds a tender crumb to the cookie and balances the flour’s structure, helping achieve that delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but results may vary slightly in texture. Be sure to choose a blend that includes xanthan gum for the best structure.

How long will the cookies keep fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies stay fresh for about five days. For longer storage, freezing is your best bet.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a charming, timeless treat that’s simple to make yet impressively delicious, give this Thumbprint Cookies with Raspberry Preserves Recipe a try. The buttery dough paired with the bright, fruity jam filling is a combination that never fails to bring smiles and warm memories. I promise once you bake these, they’ll become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!

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